We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)
(3) Base Camp
Overall, Crispin: The Cross of Lead is a straightforward read. It's a fast-paced adventure that pulls readers along, and we're not dealing with flashbacks or sudden jumps in time or a whole lot of characters. It's pretty clear who the good guys and the bad guys are, so we don't have to spend a lot of energy figuring out whom we should root for, either.
There are a few references to everyday items used in the 14th century that haven't quite made it to our time, and a few prayers in Latin, but Avi is quick to let us know what these items are for and what those priests are chanting, so we don't stay lost for long. Thanks, Avi.